Pregnancy Week 28: Start the third trimester with confidence and helpful practical tips
As you enter the twenty-eighth week of pregnancy, a new phase begins that requires balanced care of sleep, nutrition, and activity. At this time, the fetus in week 28 becomes more mature, and the symptoms of the twenty-eighth week of pregnancy appear clearly. Here you will find what helps you understand what is happening in your body and to your baby, with tips for the pregnant woman in week 28 to get through this stage comfortably.
Fetal development in week 28
The fetus measures about 37–38 cm in length in week 28 and weighs approximately 1–1.2 kg. The proportion of the head to the body improves, and the lungs continue producing surfactant in preparation for breathing at birth. Fine neural networks develop and sensory responses to light and sound improve.
- Senses: In week 28 the senses become more sensitive; the baby may respond to dim light and be soothed by familiar sounds.
- Movement: Movements take on a clearer pattern of activity and rest. Monitor kicks in the evening and after meals, and contact your caregiver if you notice a significant decrease.
Common symptoms and what is normal
In the twenty-eighth week of pregnancy you may feel slight shortness of breath due to the uterus pressing on the diaphragm, heartburn and reflux, mild swelling in the feet, and lower back pain. You may also notice irregular "Braxton Hicks" contractions, which are normal uterine practice contractions.
Symptoms of the twenty-eighth week may also include mild skin changes, breast tenderness, and slight urinary leakage when sneezing or coughing due to uterine pressure. If you wonder about symptoms in the twenty-ninth week, they are often a continuation of these changes with possible gradual increase in intensity.
- If contractions become painful or regular and do not stop with rest or drinking water, contact your doctor.
- Continue monitoring fetal movement; the baby’s activity in week 28 is a reassuring sign of well-being.
Examinations and medical follow-up
During week 28 it is recommended to perform a glucose tolerance test to screen for gestational diabetes, and to check hemoglobin and iron levels to detect anemia. Blood type and Rh factor may be reviewed, and if Rh-negative you may be advised an anti-D injection. Swabs may be taken when needed for early detection of some infections.
| Test | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Glucose tolerance test | Screening for gestational diabetes |
| Hemoglobin and iron | Diagnosis and monitoring of anemia |
| Rh factor and blood type | Determine the need for an anti-D injection |
| Swabs when needed | Early detection of infections |
Tips for the pregnant woman in week 28
- Nutrition: Eat small, frequent meals rich in protein, iron, and fiber, and reduce fatty and spicy foods to ease acidity. Maintain regular fluid intake.
- Sleep and rest: Sleep on your left side with a pillow between your knees to improve circulation. Schedule short relaxation periods during the day.
- Activity: Walk, swim, or do light stretching after your doctor’s approval, and stay hydrated. Daily pelvic floor exercises help control the bladder and support labor.
- Follow-up: Record your observations about the symptoms of week 28 and ask about normal differences compared with week 29 at your next visit.
When to seek urgent contact
- Vaginal bleeding or leakage of clear fluid from the vagina.
- Regular, painful contractions that do not subside, or unusual back pain.
- Severe persistent headache, blurred vision, upper abdominal pain, or sudden swelling of the face and hands.
- Noticeable and persistent decrease in fetal movement.
Remember that the twenty-eighth week of pregnancy marks the start of the third trimester, and week 28 is an important milestone for monitoring your health and your baby’s health. By following these guidelines, week 28 of pregnancy can proceed more smoothly and prepare you for the coming weeks.
